Biotin, also known as Vitamin H, is a vitamin that aids in the healthy growth of hair, skin, and nails. It treats inflammation, improves cholesterol levels, and helps regulate blood pressure and blood sugar. Many people get enough biotin from their diet, but others opt for supplements. These supplements may improve the keratin structure of your skin and nails, but what about hair growth?
Some studies and research have shown biotin to improve hair growth and regrowth. Enhancing your biotin intake could facilitate your body’s natural hair growth if your hair is thinning or falling out.
In 2015, a study examined women’s hair with thinning issues for three months. The researchers gave one group a supplement containing biotin, and they gave the other group a placebo. At the end of the three months, the women taking the supplement saw significant hair regrowth and less shedding than those who received the placebo.
Researchers agree that the best way to see the results that biotin can provide is to stay consistent in either incorporating it into your diet or supplementing it.
The easiest and most cost-effective way to consume biotin is through your diet. Some foods that provide a rich supply of biotin include:
- Egg yolks
- Almonds
- Walnuts
- Peanuts
- Legumes
- Bananas
- Whole grains
If you don’t have access to these foods or have strict dietary restrictions, supplementation may be a solution to improving biotin intake. Many foods have B vitamins, so biotin deficiencies are rare. Talk to a doctor before taking biotin supplements to avoid excess.
Side Effects
One dermatologist, Dr. Wilma Bergfeld, said biotin benefits people struggling with hair disorders and loss. Bergfeld said biotin can keep the hair follicle healthy, which will help prevent hair loss, or alopecia, in both men and women.
But, some people who take biotin supplements experience adverse side effects. The research into biotin is still growing, but scientists have found that some patients experience cramping, nausea, and diarrhea after incorporating biotin into their routines.
For biotin, consider foods like egg yolks and bananas instead of pills. Researchers have identified egg yolks, bananas, cauliflower, mushrooms, nuts, and whole grains as excellent sources of vitamins.
What the Research Says
Though the research into biotin’s benefits is still growing and opinions about its efficacy are changing, most doctors recommend biotin supplements if you are already experiencing hair loss. According to Healthline, this could mean that you are experiencing a biotin deficiency, which is rare but does happen. Adding biotin to your diet might reverse rashes and alopecia in men and women. One study also found that participants who took a marine protein supplement containing biotin saw improved hair growth and hair strength after 90 days.
The Hairline Ink Solution
If your hair starts falling out, it’s natural to scramble and try to research all of the steps you can take to keep the hair that you have. Improving your diet is always a good idea to improve the function of your body and mind. Hair loss can have numerous causes, however, and while biotin may be a solution for some people, it may not curb hair loss for all people. Our revolutionary scalp micropigmentation process helps both men and women with a number of concerns, including male pattern baldness, alopecia, and women’s hair loss. We can also cover up unsightly scars on your scalp or add density to a thinning hairline. We offer Scalp Micropigmentation in over 50 US cities. Call or text us today at 833-HAIR-INK (833-424-7465) to schedule an appointment, learn about our pricing, or get a free quote!
